A statement released by the Rays stated, “We were unable to reach an agreement with Drew Rasmussen. We wish Drew the best as he moves forward. We will have no further comment on the matter.”

The 6-foot-1, 210-pound Rasmussen was a big part of the Beavers’ run to the College World Series this season. A breakout star after a dominant freshman campaign in 2015, he tore his ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow in 2016 and underwent Tommy John surgery. Upon his return this season, Rasmussen had a 1.00 ERA in 27 innings pitched and was 3-0 as a starter.

Rasmussen is now a free agent and can sign with any MLB team. If he does not, he is eligible to return to Oregon State. The Rays indicated in their release that Rasmussen would indeed return to college.

The deadline for MLB teams to sign 2017 draft picks who have not expired their college eligibility is Friday.